Building industries at sea: 'blue growth' and the new maritime economy

Throughout the world there is evidence of mounting interest in marine resources and new maritime industries to create jobs, economic growth and to help in the provision of energy and food security.

Expanding populations, insecurity of traditional sources of supply and the effects of climate change add urgency to a perceived need to address and overcome the serious challenges of working in the maritime environment.

Four promising areas of activity for 'blue growth' have been identified at European Union policy level including aquaculture; renewable energy (offshore wind, wave and tide); seabed mining; and blue biotechnology.

This work examines this topic.